Rumors are swirling that Meghan Markel, the former Duchess of Sussex, is on the brink of signing onto a massive project with Disney — expected to earn the former Royal and Sir Elton John nearly $500 million over the life of the deal — which could include merchandising and digital spin-offs for up to ten years.
Markel is expected to be the voice of the female lead in the firm’s launch of a new animated franchise based on Aida, an adaptation of the 2001 Broadway musical by Elton John and Tim Rice about a conflict between Egypt and Nubia that gives birth to a star-crossed love affair between Aida, the captured princess of Nubia, and Radames, the Egyptian captain who enslaved her people. With love and responsibility at odds, Aida and Radames must decide to follow their hearts or lead their people.
The deal is expected to include at least one secondary animated franchise, thought to be a dramatic telling of the founding of America and the drafting of the constitution through the eyes of Sally Hemmings, the enslaved spouse of the widowed Thomas Jefferson. Some conceptualize that project as ‘Hamilton from a woman’s perspective.’
The former Duchess is expected to retain an equity interest in each of the brands and their merchandising. As part of the deal, she is expected to star in a Broadway rendition of that second franchise, though it’s unclear if Elton John is also involved in that project.
Meanwhile, Prince Harry, the former Duke of Sussex is said to be considering a brand ambassadorship with Aston Martin, the luxury British automaker. He is expected to be tasked with making the firm a larger force in the North American luxury car market, growing Britain’s auto exports. His role is expected to promote Aston Martin as a classic part of British heritage and national pride — particularly in trend-setting hyper-elite circles in New York, Los Angelas, and New England.
It will be interesting to see whether the former Prince can take some of America’s luxury car market — which is now largely dominated by German carmakers. The role is expected to come with a massive budget for special events and brand promotions.
